The first step in creating your operating agreement involves determining whether you'll draft it yourself or hire an attorney to do it for you. If you have a single-member LLC, you may decide to create it on your own using a template.
How to create an LLC operating agreement in 9 steps Decide between a template or an attorney. Include your business information. List your LLC's members. Choose a management structure. Outline ownership transfers and dissolution. Determine tax structure. Gather LLC members to sign the agreement. Distribute copies.
Every LLC that is registered in the states of California, Delaware, Maine, Missouri, and New York is legally required to have an operating agreement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your LLC Operating Agreement Overlooking the Need for an Operating Agreement. Vague or Incomplete Agreements. Failing to Plan for Disputes and Dissolution. Ignoring State-Specific Requirements. Inconsistency with Other Business Documents. Not Updating the Agreement. DIY without Professional Advice.
Their absence can lead to governance by default state laws, management, and financial disorganization, and increased legal vulnerabilities. LLCS should draft and maintain an operating agreement tailored to their specific business needs.
In general, neither state nor federal laws require you to notarize LLC operating agreements for them to be legally valid. Unlike articles of incorporation and certificates of formation, you don't have to file them with the state either.
If you're forming—or have formed—an LLC in California, New York, Missouri, Maine, or Delaware, state laws require you to create an LLC Operating Agreement. But no matter what state you're in, it's always a good idea to create a formal agreement between LLC members.
An LLC operating agreement is the legal document that governs your limited liability company. Articles of Organization do NOT govern your LLC. An operating agreement shows who owns and manages the LLC, how profits are dealt with, and how any problems the LLC may have now or in the future will be resolved.